Oil, trade, and tourism top agenda at Namibia-Nigeria talks

Namibia is set to host the Fifth Session of the Namibia–Nigeria Joint Permanent Commission of Cooperation in Windhoek from today until 7 February 2025. The high-level meeting aims to strengthen bilateral relations between the two nations, particularly in the sectors of health, education, agriculture, oil, and gas.

Namibia previously called for the revival of the joint commission to cement collaboration in areas of mutual interest. Speaking ahead of the session, the Executive Director of the Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation, Penda Naanda, stressed the importance of expanding cooperation.

“This meeting is one of those engagements to frame our long-standing relations and explore new areas of collaboration,” Naanda said. “Nigeria is a major oil-producing country, and as Namibia ventures into the sector following recent oil discoveries, there is great potential for knowledge-sharing and investment.”

Beyond oil and gas, Naanda highlighted other critical sectors for engagement, including education and tourism. He noted the increasing presence of Nigerian tour operators and travel agents in Namibia and stressed the need to build on this momentum to deepen economic and cultural ties.

“We want to take our cooperation to a different level,” he added.

The Joint Commission serves as a platform for both countries to review existing agreements and explore new opportunities for trade, investment, and diplomatic engagement. The outcomes of the meeting are expected to shape future policies aimed at fostering stronger Namibia-Nigeria relations.